Nathan Aspinall has claimed a maiden European Tour title which could be a career defining win for 'The Asp' in his pursuit of such tournaments as the World Grand Prix and World Matchplay. He defeated Ryan Joyce to win the European Darts Trophy 8-4.
Aspinall as ever was the darling of the crowd this weekend with his Mr Brightside walk-on. He thrashed Luke Humphries 6-1 earlier today and also produced an epic 170 checkout which was tournament defining against Gary Anderson.
Having not won a title since the World Matchplay in 2023 and with well documented issues with his throw this could be the biggest win yet for the popular Premier League Darts star. While for Joyce despite not winning he is now in a provisional World Matchplay spot and has done his hopes of future success the world of good. But this weekend belongs to 'The Asp'.
Aspinall kicked off with a 180 and took first blood with a 92 checkout for a break of throw at 1-0. He missed 138 for 2-0 and Joyce broke back.
Aspinall missed 129 on double 12 to make it 2-1 but Joyce couldn't hold and 'The Asp' broke. He held to make it 3-1. Aspinall set up 165 to leave 16 meaning Joyce had to hit 103 but he couldn't get a dart and The Asp returned.
He returned twice with Joyce missing chances he couldn't afford to miss as the crowd continued to chant Aspinall's name. He went 4-1 up.
Joyce broke back though to make it 4-2 and was throwing to go one behind. But in similar fashion to the MVG game, Joyce was poor on throw but he got away with it as Aspinall couldn't pounce on a golden chance to make it 5-2 and he was suddenly 4-3 behind.
Joyce held on double 20 to make it 5-4. But Aspinall stretched his lead again to 6-4. He had a sudden shot at 108 but could only set up 52. Joyce took aim at 57 but missed both at double 20 and Aspinall went one away. He pinned 72 and fell down to the floor in delight as he seals an epic title win.
Ryan Joyce | VS | Nathan Aspinall |
---|---|---|
93.71 | Average (3 Darts) | 98.19 |
17 | 100+ Thrown | 11 |
8 | 140+ Thrown | 10 |
2 | 180 Thrown | 5 |
51 | Highest Checkout | 92 |
0 | Checkout 100+ | 0 |
28.6 | Checkout percentage | 32 |
4 / 14 | Checkout | 8 / 25 |